President Donald Trump has reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to maintaining a strong military presence in Poland during a meeting with the country’s new president, Karol Nawrocki, at the White House on Wednesday.
The two leaders engaged warmly, with Trump declaring that the U.S.-Polish relationship, historically strong, is now better than ever.
When asked whether the U.S. planned to continue its military presence in Poland, Trump confirmed that the U.S. would indeed maintain its troops there and indicated a willingness to increase their numbers if desired by Poland.
”
We’ll be staying in Poland. We’re very much aligned with Poland,
” Trump asserted.
Nawrocki’s visit to Washington marks his first foreign trip since taking office last month.
The president, a former amateur boxer and historian, was backed by the conservative Law and Justice party and aimed to strengthen relations with the U.S. amid complex challenges facing Warsaw.
Acknowledging Trump’s support during his election campaign, Nawrocki expressed gratitude and recognized the importance of the Polish American community.
“Those relations for me, for Poland, for Poles, are very important,
” he emphasized, highlighting shared values of democracy and independence.
Following their meeting, Nawrocki discussed specific efforts to enhance the U.S. military presence in Poland, describing the discussions as a major success in securing Poland’s safety.
Trump proudly noted that he had endorsed Nawrocki during an election that he described as contentious yet competitive, asserting that Nawrocki’s popularity has grown as people have come to know him better.
In the broader context, Trump has expressed frustration regarding the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, a situation that directly impacts Poland.
Despite previous meetings with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump’s hopes of facilitating direct negotiations have faced obstacles.
He commented on the current state of affairs, suggesting, “Maybe they have to fight a little longer.
” He further remarked on the futility of continued conflict.
A call between Trump and Zelenskyy is set to take place Thursday, coinciding with Zelenskyy’s meetings in Paris to discuss potential postwar security arrangements with European allies.
Nawrocki’s visit also reflects growing anxiety in Poland and Europe about Trump’s long-term commitment to a robust U.S. military footprint on the continent, which is viewed as crucial for deterring Russian aggression.
Some advisers within Trump’s administration have advocated for a strategic shift of U.S. forces from Europe to the Indo-Pacific, focusing on China as a primary competitor.
Currently, about 8,200 American troops are stationed in Poland, although this number can fluctuate based on Pentagon assessments.
Upon Nawrocki’s arrival at the White House, Trump greeted him warmly and they observed U.S. military jets flying over the South Lawn in a display of respect for Maj. Maciej “Slab” Krakowian, a Polish Air Force pilot who tragically died in a recent crash.
Nawrocki expressed appreciation for this tribute, acknowledging the significance of military ties between the two nations.
Previously, Trump had indicated his preference for Nawrocki’s victory in the Polish elections, promising closer military cooperation as a potential benefit.
Prior to the election, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also visited Poland, emphasizing that a Nawrocki win would lead to strong American support against common adversaries.
Ultimately, Polish voters opted for Nawrocki following a tightly contested race against liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski.
In Poland’s parliamentary system, much power resides with the elected parliament, while the president’s role includes international representation and legislative veto powers.
Nawrocki’s administration may face challenges from Prime Minister Donald Tusk, an ally of Trzaskowski, adding to the complexities of his presidency.
On the international stage, Nawrocki has mirrored some of Trump’s statements about Ukraine, reaffirming Poland’s commitment to supporting Ukraine but also expressing dissatisfaction with Zelenskyy’s leadership.
He has voiced concerns over Ukrainian refugees allegedly taking advantage of Polish generosity, insisting that Poles should receive priority in social services like healthcare and education.
Amid these discussions, Nawrocki made it clear to Trump that the need for a robust U.S. military presence in Poland is vital in response to ongoing Russian belligerence.
Russia is expected to conduct joint military exercises with Belarus soon, a move that has heightened tensions in Poland and among neighboring NATO members, including Lithuania and Latvia.
image source from：defensenews
